The Blog

How the northern suburbs gave back to the farmers: a local fundraising wrap up

Local Croom dairy farmer, Jason Maloney, talks with the Mercury about his hardship

It is months like these I’m proud I live here, looking around at the support given to farmers, through #BuyABail, by so many local businesses and families.

Every radio station in the area has hosted a fundraising day, which is great. I know Jose Jones raised over $1,000. Coledale Surf Life Saving Club dug deep with over $1300 raised, and it was the biggest contribution to the cause among all SLSC’s state-wide. Amazing! Have I missed any? Let me know on our Facebook.

I grew up close by to my cousins who ran a dairy farm in Woonona. It’s been years since then, but I was reminded of what life is like on the land when I read in the Mercury Jason Maloney’s story, a local Croom dairy farmer.

Jason, a rugged bloke with a commitment to his cattle, struggled to hold back the tears when he spoke of the huge financial stress he’s felt trying to make ends meet to keep his cattle alive.

Dairy farming is big around here, as you probably know. Just like so many of our coastal neighbours. It’s because coastal areas have the best rain, and dairy farming needs water. Though for 6 months now, the rainfall has barely touched the sides.

I think it’s brave people like Jason who help us understand things better and farmers like Jason are worthy of our support.

Taking a big picture look at the issue, I feel the farming industry is essential. Stability in the industry is important to our food security and national productivity. Farming also drives the communities around where the farms operate. Helping a farmer, helps others. When farmers don’t make money, nor do the local corner stores, equipment suppliers and other businesses.

Beyond that though, there is that sense of chipping in to help a hardworking mate. Many of us who gave to the fundraises of the radio stations and local businesses, hold dear that sense of community spirit. We might not know a family who is hurting, but just because they are, it means we should do what we can to help.

Good onya guys. I reckon we’ve done pretty good.

I send my wishes to the local farmers, that you make it through this tough time. Good vibes too for some heavy buckets of rain coming your way soon.